Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Brivaracetam?
Brivaracetam is an anti-epileptic drug, also called an anticonvulsant.
Brivaracetam is used to treat partial onset seizures in people with epilepsy.
Brivaracetam oral is for use in adults and children who are at least 4 years old. Brivaracetam injection is for use in people who are at least 16 years old.
Brivaracetam may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use brivaracetam if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- depression or other mood problems;
- suicidal thoughts or actions;
- liver disease; or
- alcoholism or drug addiction.
You may have thoughts about suicide while taking this medicine. Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.
Follow your doctor's instructions about taking seizure medication if you are pregnant. Seizure control is very important during pregnancy, and having a seizure could harm both mother and baby. Do not start or stop taking this medicine without your doctor's advice, and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of brivaracetam on the baby.
It may not be safe to breast-feed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
Brivaracetam oral is not approved for use by anyone younger than 4 years old. Brivaracetam injection is for use in people who are at least 16 years old.
How should I use Brivaracetam
Use Brivaracetam (Oral/Injection)(Intravenous,Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Brivaracetam may be habit-forming. Misuse can cause addiction, overdose, or death. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law.
Brivaracetam injection is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection if you are unable to take the medicine by mouth.
Take brivaracetam oral with a full glass of water, with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Brivaracetam doses are based on weight in children. Your child's dose needs may change if the child gains or loses weight.
Do not stop using brivaracetam suddenly, even if you feel fine. Stopping suddenly may cause serious medical problems or increased seizures. Follow your doctor's instructions about tapering your dose.
Use all seizure medications as directed. Do not change your dose or dosing schedule without your doctor's advice. Tell your doctor if any of your medicines seem to stop working.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not allow the liquid medicine to freeze. Throw away unused liquid after 5 months.
Keep track of your medicine. Brivaracetam is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if anyone is using it improperly or without a prescription.
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
Brivaracetam side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe dizziness or drowsiness;
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- loss of balance or coordination;
- unusual thoughts or behavior; or
- hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not real).
Common side effects may include:
- dizziness, drowsiness;
- nausea, vomiting; or
- feeling tired.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Brivaracetam?
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or severe drowsiness can cause falls or other accidents.